How many questions are on the NZ road code test for cars in 2026 and what is the pass mark?

The NZ learner licence theory test for cars (Class 1) has 35 multiple-choice questions drawn from The Official New Zealand Road Code published by Waka Kotahi (NZ Transport Agency), 2024 edition (Waka Kotahi, 2024). You need at least 32 correct answers to pass, which works out to 91.4% — but Waka Kotahi rounds this to 88% in their learner-facing materials because the test uses 32/35 as the published pass mark (Waka Kotahi, 2024). For motorcycles (Class 6) the test has 35 questions with the same 32/35 pass mark; for heavy vehicles (Classes 2–5) the test is tiered by vehicle class with 35 questions and an 88% pass mark. All theory tests are administered at NZTA driver licensing agents across New Zealand (Waka Kotahi, 2024).

How long is the NZ road code test and what happens if I fail?

You have 60 minutes to complete the 35-question car theory test (Waka Kotahi, 2024). The timer starts when the testing officer logs you in and cannot be paused. If you fail, you can re-book the test the next business day (no waiting period), but each attempt costs the standard theory-test fee of $45.20 NZD in 2024 — confirm the current fee on the NZTA website before booking. There is no annual cap on attempts, but three or more failures typically trigger a recommendation to complete a professional driving lesson before re-attempting. You must hold a current learner licence before you can sit the test; the licence itself costs $49.60 NZD and is valid for 5 years (Waka Kotahi, 2024).

What handbook should I study for the NZ road code test in 2026?

The official source is The Official New Zealand Road Code, published by Waka Kotahi (NZ Transport Agency) and available for free online and as a $20 print copy from NZTA (Waka Kotahi, 2024). The handbook is divided into four parts: (1) The New Zealand Road User, (2) Traffic Law and Road Rules, (3) Safe Driving Practices, and (4) Specific Driving Situations. Test questions are drawn exclusively from these four parts, with Part 2 (Traffic Law and Road Rules) carrying the heaviest weight. After reading the handbook, complete the free NZTA online practice quizzes (around 60 questions on the official site) and layer paid apps (AA Road Code, NZ Road Code Quiz, Kiwi Driver Theory) for timed mocks. Aim for 100% on three timed mocks before booking the real test (Waka Kotahi, 2024).

What is the difference between the NZ learner licence, restricted licence, and full licence?

The learner licence is the first stage, valid for 5 years, and allows you to drive with a supervising full-licence driver at all times (Waka Kotahi, 2024). After holding the learner licence for at least 6 months, you can sit the restricted licence practical test, which removes the supervisor requirement but imposes night-driving (10pm–5am) and passenger restrictions unless a supervisor is present. The restricted licence is also valid for 5 years (or until you turn 18, after which the night and passenger restrictions lapse if you take an advanced driving course). After a further 6 months (or 18 months for over-25s), you can sit the full licence practical test, which has no restrictions (Waka Kotahi, 2024).

Is the NZ road code test available in languages other than English?

Yes. The NZ road code theory test is available in English plus 11 community languages: te reo Māori, Chinese (Simplified and Traditional), Samoan, Tongan, Hindi, Punjabi, Korean, Japanese, Arabic, and Spanish (Waka Kotahi, 2024). Pre-translated audio is provided via headphones at the testing terminal. You select your preferred language when you book. The English version is the default and is the only one for which the test instructions are also delivered verbally; other languages use the on-screen translation plus headphones. Note that the practical driving test is conducted in English only — interpreter support is not provided for the practical test (Waka Kotahi, 2024).

How long does the NZ driver licence process take from theory test to full licence?

The total timeline from theory test to full licence typically takes 12–24 months (Waka Kotahi, 2024). After passing the theory test and holding the learner licence for at least 6 months (you must log 120 hours of supervised driving if under 25), you sit the restricted licence practical test. After a further 6 months on the restricted licence (or 18 months for over-25s), you sit the full licence practical test. Total minimum time: 12 months for under-25s, 18 months for over-25s. Practical test fees are $59.20 NZD for the restricted test and $66.50 NZD for the full licence test in 2024 — confirm on the NZTA website (Waka Kotahi, 2024).

Can I take the NZ road code test online at home in 2026?

No. The learner licence theory test is an in-person test at an NZTA driver licensing agent — there is no online-at-home option (Waka Kotahi, 2024). NZTA uses supervised touch-screen terminals to verify identity and prevent cheating. The free NZTA online practice tests on the Waka Kotahi website are for study only; only the in-person test counts toward your learner licence. Be wary of third-party sites offering 'official online NZ road code test' — they are scams; the only legitimate booking channel is via the NZTA website or by phoning 0800 822 422. Some AA centres also deliver the test by appointment (Waka Kotahi, 2024).

NZ Road Code Practice Test 2026: 25 Q&A

Q: What are the eligibility requirements for the NZ learner licence test?

To sit the NZ learner licence theory test you must be at least 16 years old (Class 1 car), 16 for motorcycles (Class 6), or 18 for heavy vehicles (Classes 2–5) (Waka Kotahi, 2024). You must pass an eyesight screening at the testing agent and present one primary photo ID (New Zealand passport, Kiwi Access Card, or current driver licence from another country). New Zealand residents and most visa holders are eligible; temporary visa holders must hold a visa valid for at least 12 months. If you are under 18, a parent or guardian must sign the application form (Waka Kotahi, 2024).

Quick Answer

The 2026 NZ road code practice test for cars (Class 1) is a 35-question computer-based theory exam administered by Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency, with a pass mark of 88% (32 correct answers out of 35) and a 60-minute time limit (Waka Kotahi, 2024). The test fee is $45.20 NZD, and you must hold a current NZ learner licence ($49.60 NZD, valid 5 years) before you can book. Bookings open via the NZTA website or by phoning 0800 822 422. This free NZ road code practice test 2026 edition covers all four parts of The Official New Zealand Road Code and includes 25 sample questions, two pass-mark tables, and a study plan (Waka Kotahi, 2024).

Data last verified September 2026 from the Waka Kotahi NZTA driver-licensing portal and The Official New Zealand Road Code 2024 edition (Waka Kotahi, 2024).

What is the NZ road code test?

The learner licence theory test is the first stage of the New Zealand graduated-licensing scheme. Every driver sitting the car (Class 1), motorcycle (Class 6), or heavy-vehicle (Classes 2–5) theory test must pass before being issued a learner licence (Waka Kotahi, 2024). The test checks your working knowledge of New Zealand road rules, signs, and safe-driving practices, not your actual driving skill — that comes in stage two (the restricted licence practical test) and stage three (the full licence practical test).

The test is computer-based at NZTA driver licensing agents across New Zealand. Waka Kotahi draws items from a pool of around 350 questions aligned to the four parts of The Official New Zealand Road Code (Waka Kotahi, 2024). All 35 questions on test day count toward the score; there are no ungraded trial items. You can choose to sit the test in English plus 11 community languages.

NZ road code test format at a glance

Item	Car (Class 1)	Motorcycle (Class 6)	Heavy vehicle (Class 2–5)
Question count	35	35	35
Time limit	60 min	60 min	60 min
Pass mark	88% (32/35)	88% (32/35)	88% (32/35)
Theory test fee (2024)	$45.20	$45.20	$45.20
Booking channel	NZTA website or 0800 822 422	NZTA website	NZTA website
Re-attempt waiting	Next business day	Next business day	Next business day
Permitted aids	None (calculator app provided)	None	None

Source: Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency driver licensing portal (Waka Kotahi, 2024).

Question topics and weighting

Topic (Official Road Code part)	Approximate question weight	Sample topics
Part 1 — The New Zealand Road User	~5 of 35	Licence classes, ages, medical fitness, alcohol limits
Part 2 — Traffic Law and Road Rules	~15 of 35	Give way, roundabouts, intersections, passing, speeds
Part 3 — Safe Driving Practices	~8 of 35	Following distance, hazards, fatigue, weather
Part 4 — Specific Driving Situations	~7 of 35	Motorways, rural roads, night driving, emergencies

Source: Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency The Official New Zealand Road Code 2024 (Waka Kotahi, 2024). Topic weighting is an estimate based on NZTA sample-question disclosure; actual test weighting may vary slightly.

Eligibility and what to bring

You must be at least 16 years old for a Class 1 car learner licence, 16 for Class 6 motorcycle, or 18 for Class 2–5 heavy-vehicle learner licence (Waka Kotahi, 2024). Pass an eyesight screening at the testing agent and present one primary photo ID (New Zealand passport, Kiwi Access Card, or current overseas licence). If you are under 18, a parent or guardian must sign the application. Bring your booking confirmation and a current address proof (utility bill, bank statement) for the application form (Waka Kotahi, 2024).

Sample NZ road code questions and answers

The 25 questions below mirror the topics and difficulty of the live NZTA pool. Each answer cites the relevant section of The Official New Zealand Road Code 2024 (Waka Kotahi, 2024).

Q1. What is the default open-road speed limit in New Zealand?

Answer: 100 km/h on roads without a signposted limit. Rationale: New Zealand uses 100 km/h as the open-road default; 50 km/h is the urban default. (Waka Kotahi, 2024)

Q2. What is the urban speed limit in New Zealand?

Answer: 50 km/h unless otherwise signposted. Rationale: Most urban roads are signposted 50 km/h; school zones drop to 40 km/h during pick-up and drop-off times. (Waka Kotahi, 2024)

Q3. What is the legal blood alcohol limit for a learner or restricted driver in NZ?

Answer: Zero (0.00 BAC) for learner and restricted drivers; 0.05 for full-licence drivers over 20; 0.00 for under-20 full-licence drivers. (Waka Kotahi, 2024)

Q4. What does a yellow centre line mean on a NZ road?

Answer: It separates opposing traffic flows; you must keep left. Rationale: A solid yellow line means no crossing; a dashed yellow line means crossing is permitted when safe. (Waka Kotahi, 2024)

Q5. Who gives way at a roundabout in New Zealand?

Answer: Vehicles entering the roundabout give way to traffic already circulating. Rationale: Always give way to your right (or to traffic already in the roundabout). (Waka Kotahi, 2024)

Q6. What is the minimum following distance in good conditions?

Answer: 3 seconds. Rationale: The 3-second rule gives reaction time; extend to 4–6 seconds in rain or fog. (Waka Kotahi, 2024)

Q7. Can you use a mobile phone hands-free on a learner licence?

Answer: No. Learner and restricted drivers cannot use any phone function — including hands-free — while the vehicle is moving or stationary but not parked. (Waka Kotahi, 2024)

Q8. What does a blue reflector on a sign post mean?

Answer: It marks a fire hydrant location for firefighters. Rationale: Blue reflectors are not traffic instructions but help emergency services. (Waka Kotahi, 2024)

Q9. What is the speed limit past a school bus with flashing amber lights?

Answer: 20 km/h when passing a stopped school bus with flashing lights. Rationale: NZ law requires drivers to slow to 20 km/h when passing a stopped school bus that is picking up or dropping off children. (Waka Kotahi, 2024)

Q10. What does a single yellow line on the kerb mean?

Answer: No parking — you may stop only briefly to drop off or pick up passengers or goods. Rationale: Double yellow = no stopping; single yellow = no parking. (Waka Kotahi, 2024)

Q11. How long must you display L-plates on a learner licence?

Answer: Continuously while driving on a learner licence, until you pass the restricted licence test. Rationale: L-plates must be visible from front and rear at all times, including at night. (Waka Kotahi, 2024)

Q12. What is the demerit-point suspension threshold for a learner driver in any 2-year period?

Answer: 50 points (but learner and restricted drivers are suspended for any 10-point accumulation in 12 months). Rationale: The NZ demerit system is point-based; offenders accumulate points that lead to suspension or disqualification. (Waka Kotahi, 2024)

Q13. What is the fine for not wearing a seatbelt in NZ?

Answer: $150 NZD instant fine; court conviction can reach $1,000. Rationale: Drivers are responsible for ensuring all passengers wear seatbelts; children under 7 require an approved child restraint. (Waka Kotahi, 2024)

Q14. What does a white diamond painted on the road mean?

Answer: It marks a pedestrian crossing ahead — slow and prepare to stop. (Waka Kotahi, 2024)

Q15. How far must you park from a fire hydrant?

Answer: At least 1 metre on either side; fines and towing apply. (Waka Kotahi, 2024)

Q16. What is the minimum legal tread depth for car tyres in NZ?

Answer: 1.5 mm across the tread surface; replace at 3 mm for wet safety. (Waka Kotahi, 2024)

Q17. Can you turn right on a red traffic light in NZ?

Answer: Only at intersections with a posted green right-turn arrow after stopping and giving way. Rationale: Turning right on a plain red light is illegal. (Waka Kotahi, 2024)

Q18. What is the speed limit on a sealed rural road with no signs?

Answer: 100 km/h. Rationale: The 100 km/h open-road limit applies unless signposted otherwise; some high-crash rural roads drop to 80 km/h. (Waka Kotahi, 2024)

Q19. What does a red reflector on a road sign mean?

Answer: It marks the wrong-direction entry to a one-way street or motorway off-ramp. Rationale: Red reflectors are designed to be visible only to wrong-way drivers. (Waka Kotahi, 2024)

Q20. What is the legal alcohol limit for a bus or taxi driver in NZ?

Answer: 0.02 BAC for drivers of public passenger vehicles, heavy vehicles, and those carrying dangerous goods. (Waka Kotahi, 2024)

Q21. What is the supervised driving hour requirement for under-25 NZ learners?

Answer: 120 hours, recorded in a NZTA Learner Log Book. Rationale: The 120-hour rule applies to all learners under 25; over-25 learners are exempt from the log-book requirement but must still hold the learner licence for 6 months. (Waka Kotahi, 2024)

Q22. What is the fine for passing a school bus with flashing red lights?

Answer: $150 NZD instant fine; court conviction can reach $1,000 and 35 demerit points. Rationale: You must stop fully when the bus's red lights are flashing. (Waka Kotahi, 2024)

Q23. What is the minimum age to drive a Class 2 heavy vehicle (over 18,000 kg) in NZ?

Answer: 18 years for the learner licence; 25 years (or 2 years on the equivalent NZ Class 2 licence from another country) for the full Class 2 licence. (Waka Kotahi, 2024)

Q24. What does a yellow painted kerb mean in NZ?

Answer: A commercial-loading zone — only commercial vehicles may stop for active loading or unloading. (Waka Kotahi, 2024)

Q25. What is the emergency phone number for Fire and Emergency NZ?

Answer: 111 (triple one). Rationale: 111 connects to Police, Fire, or Ambulance in NZ; 112 works from any mobile phone worldwide. (Waka Kotahi, 2024)

Where to book the NZ road code test in 2026

Book the theory test via the Waka Kotahi NZTA website or by phoning 0800 822 422 (Waka Kotahi, 2024). You will need a RealMe account (free) and a credit or debit card to pay the $45.20 NZD theory-test fee at the time of booking. Test centres operate in Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, Hamilton, Tauranga, Dunedin, and most regional centres — confirm your nearest NZTA driver licensing agent before booking. Slots open 30 days ahead and fill fastest in Auckland and Wellington during the November–March peak learner season.

Resources and next steps

For more practice material, read the free The Official New Zealand Road Code 2024 online and complete the free NZTA online practice quizzes (Waka Kotahi, 2024). After passing the theory test, start logging your 120 supervised driving hours in the NZTA Learner Log Book (under-25s) and book your restricted licence practical test 6 months later at any NZTA driver licensing agent.

For TutorsBot's broader exam-prep hub covering JEE, NEET, GRE, IELTS, and other practice-test resources, see TutorsBot entrance-exams training.

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NZ Road Code Practice Test 2026: 25 Q&A + 88% Pass Mark